US Representative Raises Concerns Over Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure

Representative Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) has been vocal about vulnerabilities in the country’s infrastructure, particularly regarding the risk of cyberattacks.

During a recent hearing with the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which he now chairs for the Environmental Subcommittee, Palmer highlighted the urgent need to safeguard critical infrastructure.

Reflecting on past incidents, he noted, “In 2021, there was a significant ransomware attack on a colonial pipeline in my district, along with numerous attacks on healthcare facilities nationwide. That pipeline became a focal point in those events.” He expressed that these kinds of threats, whether targeting fuel lines or other pipelines, should be taken seriously.

Palmer specifically warned about the potential for cyber threats from foreign adversaries, emphasizing concerns about China.

“These attacks, including those on the colonial pipeline, often seem to be motivated by financial gain,” he remarked. “But we also have to consider whether these threats come from safe havens for attackers, including nations like China and Russia.”

He stressed the importance of prioritizing this issue, saying, “My worries go beyond just pipelines. It’s about key infrastructure across the entire nation that could be targets for cyberattacks from state-sponsored groups. It’s crucial to protect our entire grid, not just the power sector.”

In closing, Palmer reiterated the need for heightened security measures to protect America’s energy infrastructure from hostile threats.